in motion volume 1 2004

PHYSICAL THERAPY IN MOTION

DDDDDEPEPEPEPEPARARARARARTMENTTMENTTMENTTMENTTMENT OFOFOFOFOF B B B B BIOKINESIOLOGYIOKINESIOLOGYIOKINESIOLOGYIOKINESIOLOGYIOKINESIOLOGY ANDANDANDANDAND P P P P PHYSICALHYSICALHYSICALHYSICALHYSICAL T T T T THERAPYHERAPYHERAPYHERAPYHERAPY

Volume 1, 2004

PHYSICAL THERAPY IN MOTION

USC’s PT Program Hailed as Nation’s BestUSC’s PT Program Hailed as Nation’s BestUSC’s PT Program Hailed as Nation’s BestUSC’s PT Program Hailed as Nation’s BestUSC’s PT Program Hailed as Nation’s Best

(Continued on page 14)

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DeparDeparDeparDeparDepartment Debuts New Wtment Debuts New Wtment Debuts New Wtment Debuts New Wtment Debuts New WebsiteebsiteebsiteebsiteebsiteWHAT’S INSIDE

Message from the Chair ..... 2

Multiculural Alliance .......... 2

Student News ...................... 4

Clinical Education News ..... 6

Commencement 2004 ......... 8

Alumni News ....................... 10

Faculty News ....................... 12

70 Years of Service .............. 14

Homecoming ....................... 15

Triumphant Journey ........... 15

Let’s Keep in Touch ............. 16

No one has to convince thefaculty of USC’s Department ofBiokinesiology and Physical

Therapy that the Trojans are nationalchampions – not only in football, but inphysical therapy as well.

U.S. News and World Report recentlyranked the Department No. 1 in the na-tion for its Doctor of Physical Therapyprogram. That’s first out of a total of 85professional (entry-level) Doctor ofPhysical Therapy programs around thecountry accredited by the Commissionon Accreditation in Physical TherapyEducation.

James Gordon, chair of the Depart-ment, was gratified by the high rank-ing, but not surprised—because the

Department’s members have pushednonstop to lift the Department to the top.

“In 2001, the Department’s facultyand staff developed a strategic plan thatstated that our goal is to become the pre-eminent department of physical therapyin the United States, and we have beenworking very hard to accomplish thatgoal,” Gordon said. “I should also recog-nize the outstanding accomplishmentsof our students and graduates—thesedemonstrate the excellence of our edu-cational programs.”

The Department of Biokinesiologyand Physical Therapy now joins USC’sDepartment of Occupational Science andOccupational Therapy as the top pro-grams in their fields, Gordon added. “It

To better serve prospective stu-dents, alumni, patients, andthose with interest in our varied

activities, the USC Department ofBiokinesiology and Physical Therapyhas redesigned and launched a new col-orful and dynamic website. Located athttp://www.usc.edu/pt, the new sitefeatures photos of current students,alumni, and faculty on the homepagegiving testimonials about theirexperience in the Department. The pho-tos on the homepage change in a ran-dom order every time someone visitsthe site.

The impetus for the redesign wasto maximize the quantity and quality ofinformation about the Departmentreadily available on the internet. Thesite debuted in May 2004 with a wealthof information on the educational, re-search and practice areas of the Depart-ment. It provides information to cur-rent and prospective students, alumni,

friends, clinical educators andpatients. Whether the visitor is seekinginformation about our programs, gettinginvolved with our students, receivingtreatment or participating in the latestclinical trials, the answers are all avail-able at the click of a mouse. The site willalso serve as the portal for the Depart-

Volume 1, 2004 www.usc.edu/ptUSC Department of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy [2]

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRS

James Gordon, EdD, PTChair

is no accident that the top-ranked programsin both physical therapy and occupationaltherapy are at USC,” Gordon said, praisingJoseph P. Van Der Meulen, vice president forhealth affairs, and his staff for helping bothprograms excel. Established in 1943 to train physicaltherapists at the undergraduate level, theDepartment started offering master’s degreesin physical therapy in 1962. When it beganawarding a doctor of philosophy degree in1984, it was the first physical therapy pro-gram in the nation to do so. It was only thesecond program in the nation to offer the Doc-tor of Physical Therapy as the entry-level pro-fessional degree in physical therapy. Today, the Department enrolls about 285students. The majority are enrolled in its en-try-level Doctor of Physical Therapy pro-gram, which prepares graduates for a careerin physical therapy. Other students are en-rolled in the post-professional Doctor ofPhysical Therapy program, which preparespracticing physical therapists to become clini-cal educators, research collaborators andleaders in the profession. Still more are in resi-dency programs in Orthopedic and Neuro-logic Physical Therapy (specialty programsfor practicing therapists) or inBiokinesiology-specific research degree pro-grams (master of science and doctor of phi-losophy). Faculty members conduct research in anumber of areas: biomechanics, motor behav-ior and motor control, exercise science andmotor development. Among other external re-search funding, the Department received a$1.5 million grant, the largest ever grantedby the Foundation for Physical Therapy, toestablish and lead PTClinResNet, a networklinking five major physical therapy researchcenters. Gordon said the faculty will keep the mo-mentum going. “Having earned a number oneranking, we should not become complacent,”he said. “If anything, we now must workharder to ensure that we deserve that rank-ing. In effect, the number one ranking magni-fies the expectations by which we are judged.And of course, now we must begin the hardwork of staying at number one.”

-Alicia Di Rado

USC Health Sciences Public Relations

USC PT is #1USC PT is #1USC PT is #1USC PT is #1USC PT is #1 (continued from page 1)WWWWWe’re’re’re’re’re #1….e #1….e #1….e #1….e #1….Should we care?Should we care?Should we care?Should we care?Should we care?

We live in a world that sometimes seems ob-sessed with polls and rankings. Who can

forget the controversy that erupted during lastyear’s football season? USC’s football team wasranked #1 in both national polls but was shut outof the BCS championship game because it wasthird in the BCS ranking system. The overwhelm-ing sentiment, of course, was that the NCAAshould devise a way to allow the teams to settlewhich is best on the football field, not in polls orrankings.

Obviously, there can be no such resolution to thequestion of which is the best physical therapy pro-gram in the country. We can only rely on polls andranking systems. To rank physical therapy pro-grams, the U.S. News and World Report (USN&WR)uses peer assessment surveys. Two faculty mem-bers in each of the approximately 200 programsacross the country rate each of the other programson a 1 to 5 scale. The program with the highestaverage rating is ranked #1, and so forth. Clearlythis is far from a competition based on objectivemeasures. Instead, we have been judged by ourpeers, primarily based on reputation. So, one mightask, should we care?

The truth is that our discussions in the Department are much like those thatJohn Wooden (yes, the legendary basketball coach at UCLA!) always hadwith his players. They didn’t talk about winning but about teamwork, aboutevery player fulfilling and maximizing his potential, and about getting outthere and doing their best. Now that could sound a little corny. But, in fac-ulty meetings we also don’t sit around and talk about getting the #1 ranking.What we do talk about is how to become a world class program by attract-ing the best faculty so that we can lead the way in curriculum and research.We put a lot of energy into recruiting a diverse and talented student bodywho can respond to our challenging curriculum. We discuss the develop-ment and utilization of our wonderful space and resources so that we canprovide a creative and innovative learning environment. We explore inter-disciplinary collaborations nationally and internationally and build on thoseexperiences. When we achieve the goals we set for ourselves, the #1 rankingis a by-product.

Do we care? Yes. To be judged the top program by our peers is, for us, a greathonor and an even greater responsibility. As a Department – faculty, stu-dents, and staff, we feel enormous pride in what we have accomplished. Wehope you also feel that pride. Each of you, alumni and friends of the Depart-ment, has played a role in that accomplishment.

Sandra Howell, PhD, PTAssociate Chair

USC Department of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy Volume 1, 2004 www.usc.edu/pt[3]

New Multicultural LeadershipNew Multicultural LeadershipNew Multicultural LeadershipNew Multicultural LeadershipNew Multicultural LeadershipAlliance FormedAlliance FormedAlliance FormedAlliance FormedAlliance Formed

In order to promote

the professional and

leadership develop-

m e n t o f u n d e r -

represented students,

third year DPT stu-

dents established the

USC Physical Therapy

Multicultural Leader-

ship Alliance (USC-

PTMLA). This student

run organization is

open to all interested students, with several objectives in mind.

The first is to enhance the capacity of this premiere physical

therapy educational program to provide a high quality educa-

tional and professional experience for physical therapy students

in general, and underrepresented students in particular. This will

be accomplished through stronger representation of issues and

concerns of the minority, underrepresented, and underserved

communities in both the academic and the clinical setting. The

second objective is to provide significant leadership, network-

ing, and mentoring opportunities for physical therapy students

by establishing relationships with interested USC PT alumni.

The third objective is to provide community service opportuni-

ties and to promote awareness of physical therapy-related is-

sues for minority and underserved populations. The final objec-

tive is to establish formal mechanisms to foster communication

with departmental leadership on issues of importance to

underrepresented students in the USC physical therapy com-

munity.

“Our goal is to have faculty and alumni become mentors for

the underrepresented incoming and current students through-

out their time at USC. We hope to have students reciprocate this

process by becoming mentors to local high school students who

have an interest in becoming physical therapists” said Cristy

Borboa, who is leading the effort to create the Alliance. “It is

important for the students to have support from those who have

gone through the process and achieved successful careers as an

outcome” she said.

The first major event of USC-PTMLA will be a welcome

barbeque this fall, scheduled for Saturday, August 28. This will

provide the incoming students a chance to meet current students,

faculty and alumni who are interested in the group’s purpose.

All interested in participating in the USC-PTMLA are invited to

attend this event. For more information or to join the Alliance,

email Cristy Borboa: [email protected].

Let’s Get Better Acquainted!Let’s Get Better Acquainted!Let’s Get Better Acquainted!Let’s Get Better Acquainted!Let’s Get Better Acquainted!

Being ranked the #1 PT program in the country re-flects on the outstanding faculty and students, and

also indicates the quality and commitment of our alumniand friends. “I understand the important role our formerstudents, now alumni, have played in helping us achievethis honor. These are people I want to get to know bet-ter!” noted Department Chair Dr. James Gordon.

Shortly after learning about being the top-rankedprogram, Dr. Gordon sent a letter to alumni and friendssharing the wonderful news, plus bringing them up-to-date on some of the advances and challenges facing theDepartment. Included in his Communiqué was a MiniSurvey to collect meaningful information about the pref-erences of the Biokinesiology and Physical Therapyalumni and friends. “Bringing our family closer to theDepartment is one of my goals,” remarked Dr. Gordon.“We want them to be engaged in our successes and sup-portive of our challenges. We are especially grateful whenalumni volunteer their time and expertise as adjunctfaculty, as mentors, and as potential employers for ourgraduates. Having extensive alumni involvement withour students is a “value-added” element of our students’education.”

The Mini Survey helped the Department captureemail addresses plus discover individuals who wouldprefer information via email rather than U.S. mail. Inaddition, our alumni and friends had an opportunity tonote their interest in becoming mentors and/or having aUSC PT student intern in their practice.

“The response of our alumni regarding their inter-est in being mentors and/or having a USC intern in theirpractice was overwhelming,” reported Dr. Gordon.Many survey respondents also indicated their interestin serving on alumni or advisory boards. “Having thiskind of information available is a big help when we needadvice, expertise, or are planning special activities,” saidSara Villagran, director of alumni relations for the De-partment. We will be maintaining active files so thatwe can call on individuals as the opportunity arises.”

While expressing gratitude to the respondents’ in-terest, Ms. Villagran observed that there were so manypeople who asked questions or needed additional infor-mation that it will take the rest of the summer to re-spond to all of them.

If you have not yet filled in your survey, pleasevisit the Department’s Alumni webpage athttp://pt.usc.edu/alumni/alumni.htm, click on the“Communiqué and Survey” link and fill in the docu-ment via the Internet . Or, go direct ly to

http://pt.usc.edu/alumni/communique.htm


STUDENT NEWS

Marisa Perdomo, a graduate teaching assistant in the De-

partment of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, has al-

ways viewed physical therapists such as herself as teachers of-

fering life-changing lessons for patients.

As it turns out, Perdomo’s students and peers think she’s more

than a therapist too — which is why she was honored with the

Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award at USC’s 23rd annual

Academic Honors Convocation on March 11.

A student in the post-professional doctoral program for

physical therapy with a master’s degree in biokinesiology from

USC, Perdomo, 43, said that a lifelong interest in medicine and a

painful experience as a hospital patient drew her to physical

therapy.

“I remember reading an article in Newsweek when I was

younger about a college football player injured in a game and

hearing about his rehabilitation. I was thinking, ‘Here’s a profes-

sion that helps people regain function,’ and I knew that was what

I wanted to do,” she said.

In her teens, she experienced a painful recovery from lym-

phoma treatment, exacerbated by nurses who hefted her from

bed without apparent concern for her comfort or how it might

affect her healing.

“I thought, ‘There has to be a better way than this. There has

to be someone who can teach you how to move in bed without

pain,’ ” she said.

Now a nationally recognized lecturer in oncology-based

physical therapy, Perdomo calls upon her experiences as an or-

thopedic manual therapist and developer of a community-based

support group for lymphedema patients. In addition, she offers a

unique perspective as a survivor of three bouts of cancer.

Perdomo’s students describe her as an extremely knowledge-

able and attentive instructor, as well as an important source of

encouragement and guidance.

PT Student Selected Outstanding TPT Student Selected Outstanding TPT Student Selected Outstanding TPT Student Selected Outstanding TPT Student Selected Outstanding Teaching Assistant by USCeaching Assistant by USCeaching Assistant by USCeaching Assistant by USCeaching Assistant by USC

What Perdomo loves most about teaching “is taking a

topic that students know nothing about and then finding

something that excites them — something that sparks an

interest or passion or touches a heartstring. There’s noth-

ing like seeing a student get excited about comprehending

new material or master a new skill or technique.”

“The other great thing about being a teacher,” she said,

“is that you also have to be a professional student your-

self. You have to constantly learn and challenge yourself

to be able to teach anything.”

Describing her teaching philosophy, Perdomo said that

she strives “to create a supportive atmosphere where stu-

dents feel challenged during the learning process but re-

main confident in their ability to integrate and apply the

new concepts.”

-Jon Nalick

USC Health Sciences Public Relations

PODS I Scholarship RecipientPODS I Scholarship RecipientPODS I Scholarship RecipientPODS I Scholarship RecipientPODS I Scholarship Recipient

Richard B. Souza, MPT, and PhD student in biokinesiology (right), hasbeen selected by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Board of Trustees

to receive a $7,500 Promotion of Doctoral Studies scholarship in support ofthe post-candidacy phase of his doctoral studies. Souza was one of six recipi-ents across the nation. Our congratulations to Richard!

Left to right: Department Chair James Gordon; MarisaPerdomo holding her Outstanding Teaching Assistant

Award; Associate Professor Rob Landel.


John Popovich, now a graduate of the Doctor of PhysicalTherapy program, received the Outstanding Physical

Therapy Student Award given by the American PhysicalTherapy Association at the 2004 Annual Combined SectionsMeeting in Nashville, TN. The purpose of this award is toidentify a student physical therapist with exceptional scho-lastic ability and potential for contribution to orthopaedicphysical therapy. The criteria for eligibility is that studentsshall excel in academic performance in both the professionaland pre-requisite phases of their educational program, and beinvolved in professional organizations and activities that pro-vide the potential growth and contributions to the professionand orthopaedic physical therapy.

“The mission of the University of Southern California’sDPT program is to educate authoritative practitioners andfuture leaders in the profession of physical therapy. Mr.Popovich embraced this mission wholeheartedly through hispursuit of excellence in the clinical arena and his voluntaryinvolvement in rehabilitation science research,” said KorneliaKulig, associate professor of clinical physical therapy at USC.

John Popovich received his baccalaureate and masters de-grees from the University of Hawaii. He graduated in May2004 from the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at USCand was elected Student Commencement Speaker by his peers.While in the program, he was selected to complete a full-timeclinical internship at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabili-tation Center and at the Cleveland Clinic. Furthermore,through a highly competitive process, he was selected to ful-

Loren Chiu, PhD student in thebiokinesiology program,

working under the supervision ofDr. George Salem in theDepartment’s MusculoskeletalBiomechanics Research Labora-tory, has been awarded a $2,500grant from the National Strengthand Conditioning Association(NSCA). His study, entitled “Deter-mination of Subject SpecificAnthropometrics Using DEXA:The Effect on Joint Kinetics DuringWeightlifting,” will determine the influence of individual sub-ject-specific anthropometry on biomechanical variables in thesport of weightlifting.

Subject-specific anthropometry will be determined us-ing dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Biomechanics

USC Student Receives Outstanding PT Student AUSC Student Receives Outstanding PT Student AUSC Student Receives Outstanding PT Student AUSC Student Receives Outstanding PT Student AUSC Student Receives Outstanding PT Student Awarwarwarwarwardddddfrfrfrfrfrom the APTom the APTom the APTom the APTom the APTAAAAA

Biokinesiology Student Receives Grant from the NationalBiokinesiology Student Receives Grant from the NationalBiokinesiology Student Receives Grant from the NationalBiokinesiology Student Receives Grant from the NationalBiokinesiology Student Receives Grant from the NationalStrength and Conditioning AssociationStrength and Conditioning AssociationStrength and Conditioning AssociationStrength and Conditioning AssociationStrength and Conditioning Association

will be measured using a six-degree of freedom motion analy-sis system. Subjects will include elite weightlifters from LosAngeles and surrounding counties.

This research will allow accurate portrayal of the me-chanics of weightlifting, which is important in determiningthe benefits and risks of these activities. This research ad-dresses two important limitations in available research inweightlifting. To date, no research has directly determinedsubject-specific anthropometry in elite weightlifters; nor hasany research used a six-degree of freedom motion analysissystem to study the mechanics of weightlifting. A six-degreeof freedom motion analysis system can accurately measurerotations in all three cardinal planes.

The NSCA was formed in 1989 to financially supporthigher education of students pursuing a career in the strengthand conditioning field and to facilitate and disseminatestrength and conditioning research.

STUDENT NEWS

John Popovich and Associate Professor,Kornelia Kulig

fill a research internship at the NIH, where he studied ques-tions related to foot morphology in patients with rheumatoidarthritis. His contributions culminated in a poster presenta-tion at CSM and a second invitation to join the NIH’s clinicalresearch trials this summer. His USC related research col-laborations were related to biomechanical analyses of slipsduring walking under the guidance of Dr. Burnfied, and to thebiomechanical and clinical characteristics of the lumbar spineunder loaded and unloaded conditions in symptomatic andasymptomatic subjects, under the guidance of Dr. Kulig.

Loren Chiu, PhD student


CLINICAL EDUCATION NEWS

Farewell to JoFarewell to JoFarewell to JoFarewell to JoFarewell to Jo

The Department is sad to announce the retirement of clinicaleducation coordinator, Jo Ochoa. In honor of her manyyears of service and significant contributions, Jo was pre-

sented with a “Departmental Tribute Award” at the Department’s61st Commencement Ceremony on May 14. The following trib-ute was presented by assistant professor of clinical physicaltherapy and director of clinical education, Dr. Chris Sebelski.

“Jo Ochoa has been a member of the USC Department ofBiokinesiology and Physical Therapy for twenty years. For mostof the time, she has been Clinical Coordinator of Clinical Educa-tion. Originally appointed by Dr. Helen Hislop, Jo Ochoa was thefirst non-physical therapist to hold this position within the South-ern California clinical education community. She has seen theDepartment make the transition from the Masters degree to theDoctor of Physical Therapy. She has facilitated this shift in themission of the Department by engaging the clinical education com-munity and explaining the reasons for the change. She has been awonderful representative of the Department, especially in com-municating with various clinicians, and in developing and main-taining relationships with clinical sites. Her tireless efforts, out-standing organizational skills, and communication style hasgiven her nationwide name recognition in the physical therapycommunity. As a result of her efforts, USC maintains a databaseof over six hundred and fifty clinical affiliation sites across theUnited States.

She is not only a representative of the Department to the clini-cal community but also she is a consistent face to the studentcommunity at USC. There are a few people who are so univer-sally loved by the student body. With unflagging generosity ofher time, she counsels and advises students and keeps abreast ofthe events that affect our students during their three years atUSC. She emails, phones, pins notes on doors and sends messen-gers to keep everyone timely and on track so that all the “littlebut necessary” parts of life remain in place. I am sure that each ofthe graduates here today has been on the receiving end of one ofthese timely reminders. It is therefore with mixed feelings thatwe recognize Jo’s retirement after her many years of contribu-tions and service to the Department.

It has been my privilege to work side by side with someonewho is a role model not only to the students but also to the fac-ulty. Her commitment to her career at USC and especially in theclinical education department should not go unrecognized or un-appreciated. Her level of professionalism will continue to serveas the gold standard in the clinical education program.

Jo, for all this and so much more, on behalf of the Departmentof Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, I would like to present toyou these mementos in recognition of your remarkable contribu-tions to clinical education in the DPT program at USC.”

On May 13, at the Commencement Awards Ceremony, thestudents from the 2004 graduating class recognized Jo with a“Service to the Class” award.

Thanks for everything, Jo. You will be missed!

Jo Ochoa (left) was presented with a crystal award inthe shape of a sunrise and a stole from the Department.

Dr. Chris Sebelski poses with Jo.

Clinical Education Sites NeededClinical Education Sites NeededClinical Education Sites NeededClinical Education Sites NeededClinical Education Sites Needed

The Department is always looking for additionalquality clinical education sites for our entry-level

DPT students. We are especially interested in siteswhere our graduates are clinical instructors, and ex-periences that range from two- or six-week commit-ments to full 16-week positions.

Facilities outside the Los Angeles area that canoffer free or inexpensive housing provide studentswith invaluable opportunities to complete theirclinicals in places they would not otherwise experi-ence. If your facility is interested in partnering withUSC, please contact Chris Sebelski, Director of Clini-cal Education at (323) 442-2935 or [email protected].

The Department thanks all of you who have es-tablished an affiliation over the years for the clinicaleducation of our DPT students. A special thank-youto our alumni who provide student housing on a con-tinuous basis. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.


Attention Clinical EducationCommunity and Alumni!

The Department will be offering the following Con-tinuing Education courses in the fall of 2004: Aug. 21 - 22 - Diagnosis and Treatment of MovemementImpairment Syndromes of the Neck and Shoulder” -Shirley Sahrmann, PhD, PT, FAPTA. Sept. 11 - Manipulation for Lumbar Spine - Dr. TimFlynn. Nov. 6 - 7 - Differential Diagnosis - Dr. WilliamBoissonault.

Clinical educators qualify for a discounted price asa thank you for working with our students.

For questions or more information, contact ChrisSebelski, Director of Clinical Education (323) 442

2935 or [email protected].

Continuing EducationContinuing EducationContinuing EducationContinuing EducationContinuing EducationVVVVVolunteer Clinical Facultyolunteer Clinical Facultyolunteer Clinical Facultyolunteer Clinical Facultyolunteer Clinical Faculty

Center Coordinators of Clinical Education (CCCEs) and Clini-cal Instructors (CIs) who strongly support our program and

regularly participate in our students’ clinical education experi-ences are invited by the Department to become “Volunteer Clini-cal Faculty.” This is a great opportunity to work closely with theDepartment and to receive the following benefits:

• USC Volunteer Faculty ID Card

• Access to the USC libraries, including online OVID

search engine

• 10% discount at the USC bookstores

• Faculty discounts for USC sporting events, plays,

concerts, etc.

If you are interested in these benefits and would like to become aregular Clinical Instructor for USC DPT students, please contactChris Sebelski, Director of Clinical Education at (323) 442-2935 or

at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you!

The second research retreat sponsored by the Foot and AnkleSpecial Interest Group (FASIG) of the Orthopaedic Section of

the APTA took place April 30-May 1, 2004 at the USC Departmentof Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy. Forty- three participantsenjoyed rich discussion centered around 13 platform presenta-tions and two keynote addresses delivered by Arne Lundberg,MD and Neil Sharkey, PhD. The course participants offered a widevariety of backgrounds. Speakers and those in attendance in-cluded physicians, podiatrists, engineers, physical therapists anddoctoral students. At the end of the second day, all course partici-pants engaged in the development of a consensus statement thatwill be summarized in a future issue of the Journal of Orthopaedicand Sports Physical Therapy.

The research retreat was organized by Irene McClay-Davis,Debbie Nawoczenski, Blaise Williams and USC Adjunct Profes-sor, Steve Reischl. The FASIG would like to acknowledge the De-partment of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy of USC whoserved as host for the meeting and provided all the amenities forthe two day retreat.

Be sure to look for the proceedings of this meeting in an up-

coming issue of the JOSPT!

Participants from the Foot and Ankle Special Interest Group(FASIG) retreat sponsored by the Orthopaedic Section of the

APTA and held at USC April 30-May 1, 2004.

Second Annual FSecond Annual FSecond Annual FSecond Annual FSecond Annual FASIG RetrASIG RetrASIG RetrASIG RetrASIG Retreat held at USCeat held at USCeat held at USCeat held at USCeat held at USC

CLINICAL EDUCATION NEWS


Ben F. Massey, Jr., president of the

American Physical Therapy As-

sociation (APTA) served as the

keynote speaker for the USC Depart-

ment of Biokinesiology and Physical

Therapy Commencement Ceremony on

May 14. The title of Mr. Massey’s talk

was “The Future is Bright for Physical

Therapy.”

Mr. Massey was re-elected as presi-

dent of the APTA in June 2003 for a sec-

ond three-year term. He is Executive

Director of the North Carolina Board of

Physical Therapy Examiners in

Durham, North Carolina. An active

APTA member since 1976, Mr. Massey

has served the Association in many

leadership positions, including as Secretary of the APTA Board

of Directors, Vice Speaker of the APTA House of Delegates, and

Chair of the APTA Nominating Committee. He served as Sec-

retary of the Foundation for Physical Therapy and as a Trustee

for the Physical Therapy Political Action Committee (PT-PAC).

He also served on the Board of Directors of the Federation of

State Boards of Physical Therapy. In addition, he served in the

North Carolina Physical Therapy Association as President,

Vice President, Chief Delegate, and chair of many standing

committees and task forces.

Mr. Massey is the recipient of many awards in recogni-

tion of his many contributions to the Association and the pro-

fession of physical therapy. He has received awards from the

APTA, the North Carolina Physical Therapy Association, the

Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, and the Uni-

versity of North Carolina.

Mr. Massey received his bachelor of science in physical

therapy from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

PrPrPrPrPresident of the APTesident of the APTesident of the APTesident of the APTesident of the APTA AddrA AddrA AddrA AddrA Addresses the Class of 2004esses the Class of 2004esses the Class of 2004esses the Class of 2004esses the Class of 2004

and his master of arts from the Uni-

versity of Phoenix. He currently re-

sides in Raleigh, North Carolina. “He

has provided firm and decisive lead-

ership to the APTA during a time of

rapid changes in our professional sta-

tus, including the shift to the DPT and

the broader movement of physical

therapists to autonomous practice,”

said Department Chair, James Gor-

don.

Mr. Massey addressed the

Department’s class of 2004 which con-

sisted of 80 graduates from the Entry-

Level Doctor of Physical Therapy pro-

gram, 8 graduates from the Post-Pro-

fessional Doctor of Physical Therapy

program, 4 graduates from the residency programs in Neuro-

logic and Orthopedic Physical Therapy, 2 graduates from the

Master of Science in Biokinesiology and 4 graduates from the

Doctor of Philosophy in Biokinesiology.

On Thursday, May 13, Mr. Massey and his wife Darlene Sekerak, director of the Division of Physical Therapy at TheUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, attended the Department’s Open House and Commencement Awards Cer-

emony in honor of the graduating class. During the event’s reception Mr. Massey and Dr. Sekerak mingled with members of thegraduating class, faculty and staff. They were honored guests at the Awards Ceremony, where many of the faculty andgraduates were recognized for outstanding teaching, academic achievement, outstanding mentorship, service to the commu-nity, service to the profession, student leadership, etc. A complete list of the various awards follows:

DeparDeparDeparDeparDepartmental Atmental Atmental Atmental Atmental Awarwarwarwarwards and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honors

Doctor of Physical Therapy Class of 2004 pose for their class photo.

Department Chair James Gordon (right) presents Mr.Massey with a memento from the Department.

Departmental TributePresented to an individual in recognition of significant contri-butions or assistance to the Department over a prolonged pe-riod of time. This year’s recipient was:

Jo Ochoa

Clinical Educator of the YearPresented to a clinical educator who has provided exceptionalteaching, service, and support to our students. This year’srecipient was:

Suzanne Freeman, MPT, OCS

USC Department of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy Volume 1, 2004 www.usc.edu/pt


Outstanding Teacher AwardPresented to faculty members who demonstrate high intel-lectual standards, extremely effective teaching strategies, andgenuine concern for the students. The recipients selected bythe students were:

Jack Turman, Jr., PT, PhD (full-time faculty)Judith Burnfield, PT, PhD (adjunct faculty)Stephen Reischl, DPT, OCS (adjunct faculty)

Outstanding Mentorship AwardPresented to students in the PhD, PPDPT, or Residency Pro-grams who demonstrate exceptional skill in assisting DPT stu-dents to master difficult curricular content, participate in pro-fessional activities, and achieve personal growth essential tothe successful practice of physical therapy. This year’s recipi-ent was:

Alberto F. Vallejo

Academic Achievement in Basic Science AwardPresented to a graduating Entry-level DPT student in recogni-tion of outstanding academic achievement in the basic sci-ences. This award is based on performance in the core basicscience courses. This year’s recipient was:

Grace Yu-Chun Liao

Outstanding Overall Academic Achievement AwardPresented to a graduating Entry-level DPT student in recogni-tion of outstanding academic achievement in all courses. Theaward is based on cumulative grade point average for allcourse work. This year’s recipient was:

Anne Kertson

Order of the Golden Cane AwardPresented to graduating students in any of the Department’sprograms who have demonstrated outstanding accomplish-ments in several different areas of professional endeavor, in-

DeparDeparDeparDeparDepartmental Atmental Atmental Atmental Atmental Awarwarwarwarwards and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honorsds and Honors Continued

cluding academic course-work, clinical practice and scientificresearch. The Order of the Golden Cane is the highest honorawarded to graduates from the Department. This year’s re-cipients were:

Outstanding Service to the Community AwardPresented to a DPT student who has volunteered his/her timeand talent to serve others with a selfless zeal. This year’srecipient was:

Erin Ito

Kathleen Bice Award for Service to the Profession of PhysicalTherapyPresented to a DPT student who has volunteered his/her timeand talent to the profession of Physical Therapy with the spiritexemplified by Ms. Bice. This year’s recipient was:

Aaron N. Kraai

Outstanding Student Leadership AwardTo honor and acknowledge a graduating entry-level DPT stu-dent who has committed his/her time, organizational skills,and leadership qualities to fellow students, the Department,and the profession. This year’s recipient was:

John M. Popovich

A highlight of the event was a musical tribute presented byDPT graduate Grace Liao on the violin, accompanied by Dr.

Stan Azen on the piano.

Anne KertsonAndrea Michelle LeeHeather C. NassBrita Christine HerlickAllison Rebecca LambertyGrace Yu-Chun LiaoMildred V. LimcayThomas L. SuttonJohn M. Popovich

Aaron N. KraaiErin ItoSean Flanagan, PhDDorian K. Rose, PT, PhDSusan M. Sigward, PT, PhDSamuel Richard Ward, PT, PhDKathryn L. Doubleday, DPT, OCSRose L. Hamm, DPT

Dr. James Gordon presents a medal to each recipient of theOrder of the Golden Cane Award.



ALUMNI NEWS

Keeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in Touchouchouchouchouch

1967Hilary Andrews writes that she is recovering from a compli-cated pelvic fracture, sacral and L-4 –5 fractures from a freakcar accident. “I was shocked to see the discharge notes per RNdidn’t include the MD’s discharge plan to see a different ortho-pedist two weeks post hospital stay, so I didn’t get to vote onbeing transferred to a different facility for pelvic traction or toL.A. for pelvic refracture. This doesn’t feel at all okay to me.Does it to you?”

1979Don Kravets has been married to Diane for 26 years and havetwo sons: Brian, 23 and Adam, 18. Don is Director of PediatricRehab for Kessler Onsite Rehabilitation Services inNorthbrook, IL.

1992Andrea Avruskin received her post-professional DPT fromCreighton University in May 2003. She writes, “to catch upon the past 6 years, I came to Las Vegas to work full-time withCirque du Soleil at their show “O”. In 2001, after attending anaudition just for fun, I was cast and hired to dance full-time inthe classic Las Vegas show “Jubilee”, so I have perfomed 12shows a week there since. I went part-time at Cirque du Soleil,and work at “O”, “Mystere”, and “Zumanity” during the day. I also work in 3 community clinics on-call, and have branchedout into pulmonary rehab. Recently, I had been fighting hippain for a while and found out it was a torn labrum, and sonow am awaiting a hip arthroscopy, an unusual surgery forwhich I must go to Pittsburgh. It has been a struggle of monthsof misdiagnosis and forcing myself to dance on it in signifi-cant pain. I am praying that I can return to all of my regularjobs after a few months of rehab!!”

facility in Studio City. We offer Pilates and Gyrotonic® aspart of our rehab approach. We are also offering educationworkshops on Physical Therapy and Pilates.”

1995Jill Heileman (Bachman) writes, “Hi guys! I am still living inHawaii, and work fulltime as a mom, and as a call-in PT at anacute rehab hospital for 4-20 hours a month. My husband Jonworks as a government contractor doing future operationsand planning. Noah turned 2 in Februrary and his sisterHannah was born Sept 30, 2003. Being a mom is more chal-lenging than memorizing the origin and insertions of all themuscles in the forearm and hand!...but WAY more fun! I seeLori Yee (Pang)…(Go BOWS!) often as she has a baby the sameage as Hannah. We would love to have any of you ‘mainland-ers’ come and visit us ‘Hawaiian’s’! Send me an e-mail, I’d loveto catch up with you.” ([email protected])

1996Bob Love was one of the featured viola soloists in the La MiradaSymphony concert held on December 20, 2003 at the La MiradaTheatre for the Performing Arts. He continues to be a memberof the PT community as he works full time at the VA in LongBeach, but also has pursued his music interest, his backgroundprior to studying at USC.

2001Kevin McClenahan completed his internship with the San Fran-cisco Giants sports medicine during spring training 2004. Hewas recently promoted to Clinic Director for PRN/Brawley,CA.

THE CLASS OF ’93 WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A TEN YEARREUNION ONE YEAR LATE.

“Some of us have been talking about trying to meet up atthe CPTA conference in Anaheim this fall. For those whodon’t want to go to conference, first of all shame on youand second of all, hey you’re at Disneyland, make it afamily vacation. If you’re interested in coming or justwant more information, email me at [email protected] if you don’t want to come to a reunion, please emailme and let me know what you’re up to. Cheryl Tibbetts,MPT, OCS.”

ATTENTION CLASS OF 1995:‘SAVE THE DATE’

A small group has begun to plan their 10-year reunion forSeptember 2005, but they need help tracking down ev-eryone! Please send Katie Hettrich any contact informa-tion—yours and anyone else you still stay in touch with.And plan on coming—it will be a great time!

Contact Katie at [email protected] with your home ad-dress, e-mail address, phone number and if you would bewilling to help.

1994Gabrielle Simone Shrier (Friedman) writes, “I recently started myown business with 2 other partners—it is called Core Condi-tioning. We are located in Burbank and are opening a new

Marriages

1972Linda Carlton (Waugh) recently was married to WayneLangford. “We honeymooned in San Antonio, Tx. We live inBrea,” she writes.


Keeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in TKeeping in Touchouchouchouchouch

ALUMNI NEWS

E-mail providers come and go,but your USC connection isforever. No need to worry aboutcomplicated, hard-to-remember e-mail addresses that change everysix months. As an automomaticmember of the USC AlumniAssociation, you can sign up forfree lifetime e-mail forwarding witha USC domain name.

Visit http://alumni.usc.edu to find out how you can [email protected] and never have tochange e-mail addresses again!

LIFETIME E-MAIL FORWARDING FOR ALUMNI

1999Jason Park married Sandy Suh on April 24th, 2004. He cur-rently owns a successful outpatient orthopedic clinic in La-guna Hills.

2001Raul Lona and Munesha Ramsinghani were married August 2,2003. “We are both doing great,” writes the couple. Muneshais working for CCS – Reseda, and Raul works as a facultyclinical instructor/research therapist for USC. “Warm regardsto everyone,” they add.

2002Leslie Frank was married April 10th, 2004, to John Gerz in Pasa-dena, CA

Births

2001Kimberly Marvil Bickerton is the proudmother of Jack Ryan Bickerton,born January 8, 2003. Kimberly isworking as a school based physi-cal therapist for the Los AngelesUnified School District. Left, theBickerton family, David, Kim andJack.

2002Janet and Gary Konecne (’96) are very proud to announce thebirth of their daughter Caitlyn Ann, born March 23, 2004. Sheweighted 7 lbs, 11 oz. and was 20 inches long.

2003Jenny and Tim Lundberg (’98) are the proud parents of AlexandraKirsten, born on Saturday, May 29th at 3:50 pm. Alexandraweighs 8 lbs 13 oz and is 19". Congratulations to the Lundbergs.

Deaths

1952Nedra M. Lindquist (Ott) died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2004, atMaryhaven Nursing Home in Glenview. Nedra retired afterworking 30 years as a physical therapist for the Chicago Boardof Education. She served with the Red Cross during WorldWar II in France and Germany. Nedra earned her master’sdegree in physical therapy at the University of Southern Cali-fornia. She also received her certificate in physical therapy

from the University of Iowa.

Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical TherapyJeffrey Rodrigues, PT, DPT, OCS

Clinical Electrophysiologic Physical TherapyDouglas Munoz, PT, MS, ECS

Geriatric Physical TherapyKevin Ochs, PT, MPT, GCS

Neurologic Physical TherapyJulie Tilson, PT, DPT, NCS

Orthopaedic Physical TherapyJerry Baranick, PT, DPT, OCSMatthew Booth, PT, DPT, OCSFrank Chow, PT, DPT, OCSChristine Dragoo, PT, DPT, OCSJohnathan Farahmand, PT, DPT, OCSErik Haddick, PT, MS, OCSRobert Kennell, PT, MS, OCSKarena Lee, PT, DPT, OCSPeter Levy, PT, MPT, OCSBrenda Madsen, PT, DPT, OCSMaria Nieto, PT, OCSLaura Tietjen, PT, MS, OCSStella Vargas, PT, MS, OCSShirley Wachi, PT, DPT, OCS

Pediatric Physical TherapyJeanene Laegreid, PT, MS, PCSDiana Weber, PT, MS, PCS

Alumni Receive Clinical SpecialistAlumni Receive Clinical SpecialistAlumni Receive Clinical SpecialistAlumni Receive Clinical SpecialistAlumni Receive Clinical SpecialistCertificationCertificationCertificationCertificationCertification


Kulig Receives AKulig Receives AKulig Receives AKulig Receives AKulig Receives Awarwarwarwarward for Excellenced for Excellenced for Excellenced for Excellenced for Excellencein Academic Tin Academic Tin Academic Tin Academic Tin Academic Teaching freaching freaching freaching freaching from the APTom the APTom the APTom the APTom the APTAAAAA

Kornelia Kulig, associate profes

sor of clinical physical

therapy, has been selected as the

2004 recipient of the Dorothy E.

Baethke Eleanor J. Carlin Award for

Excellence in Academic Teaching.

The award was established in 1981

to recognize excellence in academic

teaching in physical therapy. The

purpose of the award is to acknowl-

edge an individual who has made

significant contributions to physical therapy education though

excellence in academic teaching as exemplified in the profes-

sional and teaching careers of Dorothy E. Baethke and Eleanor

J. Carlin.

“Beyond mere eligibility, Dr. Kulig qualifies to receive this

honor because she is an exceptional teacher, whose dedication

to excellence in physical therapy and commitment to her stu-

dents is legendary here at USC”, said Department Chair James

Gordon. “In addition to being a teacher, Dr. Kulig is also a

scientist and a clinician, one of the rare individuals who is

able to balance her activities in these three areas,” he said.

Dr. Kulig was selected by the APTA Board of Directors to

receive this award, which will be presented at the APTA Hon-

ors and Awards Recognition Ceremony during the 2004 An-

nual Conference and Exposition of the APTA on Thursday, July

1 in Chicago.

FACULTY NEWS

Schroeder Receives Grant fromSchroeder Receives Grant fromSchroeder Receives Grant fromSchroeder Receives Grant fromSchroeder Receives Grant fromWright FoundationWright FoundationWright FoundationWright FoundationWright Foundation

Assistant professor of research E.Todd Schroeder, has been

awarded a $50,000 grant from theRobert E. and May R. Wright Foun-dation for his study in the area oftranslational arthritis research. Hisstudy, entitled Enhancing SkeletalMuscle Protein Metabolism and Function,will test whether resistance training,a potent stimulus for protein synthe-sis, will enhance protein metabolism,muscle quality, and ultimatelyphysical function and that these effects will be enhanced byrestoring testosterone to physiologic levels.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and aging are associated witha loss of skeletal muscle mass, impaired physical function,and frailty. Although the causes are multifactorial, inflamma-tion and immobility are postulated to contribute to these com-plications. These effects are accompanied by declines in test-osterone, the body’s most powerful regulator of muscle massand strength. Understanding the physiological basis for al-terations in protein metabolism causing muscle wasting willhave important implications for the treatment of RA and age-related muscle wasting. Both non-pharmacologic (resistanceexercise training) and pharmacologic (testosterone) interven-tions known to improve net protein balance in young adultsby enhancing muscle mass and muscle quality (force per unitof muscle) will be studied to augment functional capacity in

RA.

WWWWWu Au Au Au Au Awarwarwarwarwarded $876,500 Grant frded $876,500 Grant frded $876,500 Grant frded $876,500 Grant frded $876,500 Grant from NINDSom NINDSom NINDSom NINDSom NINDS

Allan Wu, MD, assistant professor in the USC Department

of Neurology, and a member of the Department of

Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy Motor Behavior and

Neurorehabiliation Laboratory, has been awarded an $876,537

five-year grant from the National Institute of Neurological

Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Dr. Wu will be mentored for

the duration of the grant by Dr. Carolee Winstein, associate

professor in the Department of Biokinesiology and Physical

Therapy and director of the Department’s Motor Behavior and

Neurorehabilitation Laboratory.

This Research Career Development grant, entitled Motor

Cortex Function in Unimanual Goal-Directed Aiming, will fund stud-

ies of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) effects on

mechanisms of motor (movement) control. TMS is a relatively

new technique that can painlessly and non-invasively stimu-

late the brain and allow mapping of brain-behavior relation-

ships.

The first 2 years of the grant will fund a Transcranial

Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) research fellowship at existing

TMS laboratories at UCLA and at Boston’s Beth Israel Deacon-

ess Medical Center while establishing the first TMS-equipped

research laboratory at USC.

This new TMS-equipped USC Neuromotor Physiology

Laboratory is being developed with the resources of the De-

partment of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy and is an

extension of Dr Winstein’s laboratory. The final three years of

the grant will be centered at the USC Neuromotor Physiology

laboratory and will explore TMS effects in neurologic disor-

ders such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and dystonia.

Kornelia Kulig, PhD, PT E. Todd Schroeder, PhD


TTTTTwo PT Faculty Members Receive Grants frwo PT Faculty Members Receive Grants frwo PT Faculty Members Receive Grants frwo PT Faculty Members Receive Grants frwo PT Faculty Members Receive Grants from theom theom theom theom theUSC Zumberge FundUSC Zumberge FundUSC Zumberge FundUSC Zumberge FundUSC Zumberge Fund

FACULTY NEWS

Two faculty members of the Department of Biokinesiology

and Physical Therapy are the recipients of Zumberge re-

search grants this year. Established as the Faculty Research

and Innovation Fund by former USC President James H.

Zumberge to enhance scholarship at the university, the fund

was renamed in Zumberge’s honor in 1991. It is the only uni-

versity research money given to USC faculty. The purpose of

the Zumberge Interdisciplinary Research Grants is to encour-

age more collaborative efforts between faculty in different

schools and/or disciplines. The Zumberge Fund also supports

Individual Research Grants for the purpose of helping junior

faculty launch their research careers or to facilitate a change

in research direction for senior faculty.

Dr. George Salem, assistant professor,

is the recipient of a Zumberge Inter-

disciplinary Research Grant for his

study of Biomechanical Analysis of Reha-

bilitative Exercise Following Anterior Cru-

ciate Ligament (ACL) Repair: Influence of

Different Surgical Interventions. Thomas

Vangsness, MD, from the Department

of Orthopaedic Surgery in the Keck

School of Medicine, is co-principal investigator. The grant pro-

vides $44,785 in research funds.

Dr. Salem’s collaborative effort is unique in that it is the

first randomized control trial development study proposed

by the USC Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the De-

partment of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy; it is the first

study to characterize lower-extremity rehabilitation kinetics

using patients rehabilitating from an ACL procedure, and; it

establishes C-BREK, a multi-center, clinical research network.

This collaborative examination will also yield important pre-

liminary data that will provide the rationale for a future Na-

tional Institute of Health proposal.

This research will be the first to use systematic biome-

chanical investigation to characterize ACL rehabilitation ex-

ercises for patients with different surgical interventions.

Twenty-four patients rehabilitating after ACL repair will per-

form standard rehabilitative exercises for the knee while in-

strumented for biomechanical analysis. The exercises will be

identified by orthopaedists from the Department of Ortho-

paedic Surgery. Using an eight-camera motion analysis sys-

tem (Vicon) and two force platforms, the joint moments of

force (JMOF), joint excursions, and muscle activity will be

computed for each joint and exercise activity. Statistical

analyses will then be used to identify those exercises that

generate the greatest peak JMOF, joint excursions, and aver-

age muscle activity across surgical procedures.

Dr. Sandra Howell, associate profes-

sor and associate chair, is the recipi-

ent of a $25,000 Individual Research

Grant for her study entitled East meets

West for Acute Stroke Patients in China.

Dr. Howell’s study is a pilot

project that has been in progress

since spring 2002 to study the char-

acteristics of acute stroke and func-

tional outcomes post-stroke in main-

land China. A collaborative research agreement has been

established with four hospitals in central China where the

urban and rural healthcare settings are representative of the

majority of the Chinese population. Chinese doctors in the

hospitals have been trained by Dr. Howell and co-investiga-

tors, Kathy Sullivan, Ph.D., Beth Fisher, Ph.D. and Gene Sung,

M.D., in functional outcomes measurement typically em-

ployed in international post-stroke outcomes research. The

doctors in China are currently collecting outcomes data from

patients presenting with acute stroke at the four hospitals

participating in the study.

Analysis of this data will help reveal a clinical picture of

stroke in China, the fastest escalating public health concern

in a developing country undergoing the most rapid economic

growth in the world today. Because the standard of care for

stroke in central China is traditional Chinese medicine (TCM),

future studies are planned to assess the efficacy of TCM in

treating stroke. In addition, it is of interest to develop a clini-

cal trial to examine a complementary medical approach

where integration of TCM and Western neurorehabilitation

will be applied in the treatment of stroke survivors in central

China. The long-range trajectory for this project is to design

a sister study in Los Angeles to assess the efficacy of Western

neurorehabilitation compared with the integration of TCM

with Western neurorehabilitation for improving functional

outcomes post-stroke.

George Salem, PhD

Sandra Howell, PhD, PT


FACULTY NEWS Continued from page 13

More Faculty NewsMore Faculty NewsMore Faculty NewsMore Faculty NewsMore Faculty News

USC faculty continue to contribute their time, energy and ex-pertise to the profession at many levels. This past year the

California Physical Therapy Association saw Chris Powers electedVice President, Janet Konecne re-elected to the Board and JimDagostino elected to the nominating committee. Congratulationsto all and thanks for your willingness to serve the profession soably.

George Salem, PhD has been promoted to the rank of associateprofessor of biokinesiology and physical therapy with tenure.

Congratulations to Dr. Salem!

Nicolas Schweighofer, PhD, isjoining the Department of

Biokinesiology and Physical Therapyas an assistant professor and will beteaching in the neuroscience curricu-lum. Dr. Schweighofer is an internation-ally recognized researcher in Compu-tational Neuroscience who has devel-oped neural models of brain structuresinvolved in the adaptive control ofmovement.

Dr. Schweighofer earned his PhD in Computational Neuro-science from USC, and completed his Post Doctoral training at theHuman Information Science Group, ATR, in Kyoto, Japan. He earnedhis Master degree in Control Systems with a minor in Mechanicsfrom Ecole Nationale Superieure de Mecanique in Nantes, France,and his undergraduate studies majoring in Physics with a minorin mathematics from Lycee Descartes, a top-level scientific pro-gram in Tours, France.

Dr. Schweighofer has conducted computational studies ad-dressing the way in which the cerebellum complements the rolesof the basal ganglia and the motor cortex in eye and arm move-ments. He paid particular attention to the processes by whicherror signals reaching the cerebellum could be useful for efficientmotor learning. He has also studied how learning rules providethe bridge between system behavior and the neurochemistry ofsynaptic and cellular change, with a special emphasis on the roleof neuromodulators.

His most recent research direction includes studying andmodeling the neuromodulatory systems in adaptive behavior. AtUSC, he will be developing a multi-disciplinary research pro-gram on the intrinsic motivation to re-learn motor skills afterbrain injury. He will also be building the basis of a virtual assis-

tant motor therapist.

Schweighofer Joins the FacultySchweighofer Joins the FacultySchweighofer Joins the FacultySchweighofer Joins the FacultySchweighofer Joins the Faculty

Nicolas Schweighofer, PhD

Last April, four staff members from the Department ofBiokinesiology and Physical Therapy were honored

at the USC Annual Staff Recognition Luncheon for a com-bined 70 years of service to the University. Pictured fromleft: Robin Turner, 15 years; Gloria Barreras, 15 years; Janet

Cogorno, 20 years; and Jill Hopkins, 20 years.

ment to update our constituents about the latest news andevents, including continuing education, and much more.The site is continuously being modified to maximize theopportunities that technology makes available.

The site was designed by Earthbound Media Group,partly owned by alumnus and member of our Board ofCouncilors, Blaine Behringer (DPT ’00). Founded in 1999,Earthbound Media Group is a multimedia developing andconsulting firm that, among its wide variety of services,has developed multiple media to educate healthcare pro-fessionals.

To access the new website, the Macromedia Flash Plug-in is required, Windows Media is required to view the vid-eos and some documents require Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Visitors to the site are invited to forward commentsand suggestions by e-mail to [email protected] or telephone(323) 442-1193.

New WNew WNew WNew WNew Websiteebsiteebsiteebsiteebsite continued from page 1

Attention Neurologic PhysicalAttention Neurologic PhysicalAttention Neurologic PhysicalAttention Neurologic PhysicalAttention Neurologic PhysicalTherapists!Therapists!Therapists!Therapists!Therapists!

The Department is trying to compile a list of outpatientphysical therapy clinics specializing in the treatment ofneurologic disorders. The goal of the list is to provide thephysicians in the USC Department of Neurology a refer-ence for recommended providers throughout California.Please send your information to Stephanie Pho at

[email protected]. Thank you!

70 years of service to USC!70 years of service to USC!70 years of service to USC!70 years of service to USC!70 years of service to USC!


TTTTTriumphant Jourriumphant Jourriumphant Jourriumphant Jourriumphant Journeyneyneyneyney

In 1995, Kate Adamson was a wife, motherand fitness fanatic. Her life style should have

led to a rosy future, but sometimes the best laidplans of Mice and Men just don’t work out. Kateawoke on June 29 to find her body rapidly dis-appearing around her. At 33, she had suffered abrain stem stroke which left her completelyparalyzed.

The medical staff was very pessimisticabout her future. Kate’s treating physician toldher husband that he should start calling cem-eteries to make arrangements for burial prop-erty. Steven, her husband was very persistentturning the nursing staff and PT’s into a sup-port system to help get the doctor’s to see thatshe might be a miracle.

Over the 3 months of acute rehabilitation, many miracleshappened. She was a model patient and her therapists lovedworking with her. Kate was determined to get her life backand followed whatever her therapists told her. From being

Homecoming 2004

Come socialize, enter our raffle, pick-up USC memorabilia, and

listen to the one and only Trojan Marching Band! Join alumni,

students, faculty, staff, and friends of the Department of

Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy for the homecoming pre-game BBQ

and the USC vs.Arizona football game, Saturday, November 13. The BBQ

will take place from 4:00-6:30 p.m. on Trousdale Parkway at USC’s Univer-

sity Park Campus and the football game will begin at 7:15 p.m. in the Los

Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

After the BBQ, we will follow the marching band down Trousdale Park-

way on their way to the Coliseum, where a block of seats have been re-

served for the PT Department. You do not have to attend the football game to attend the pre-game BBQ. The BBQ is a nice

opportunity to reunite with other alumni, professors and staff, and meet current students and friends of the Department.

Discounted tickets to the game are $30/ea. (regular price is $40/ea. through the USC Ticket Office) and are for guests attendingboth the pre-game BBQ and football game only. BBQ meals are $12/ea. Football tickets, directions, and meal confirmation will be

sent to you in the mail.

RSVP by checking the appropriate boxes below, filling out your personal information in the form on the back and returning

it with your check payable to: USC Department of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy to the address indicated on the form.

ORDER DEADLINE - OCTOBER 25, 2004

YES! I’m coming to the USC Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy Homecoming Celebration!

� Please reserve _____BBQ meal(s) at $12 each. Meals include burgers and hot-dogs, salad, chips, desert, and drinks.

Note: You do not have to attend the football game to attend the pre-game BBQ.

� Please send me _____ discounted ticket(s) to the football game at $30 each.

Note: Discounted tickets are limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis to guests attending both the pre-game BBQ and football game only.

Please complete your contact information in the “Let’s Keep in Touch” form on the back of this page and return it with your check.

unable to move any part of her body she wasable to accomplish miracles. Today left with alimp and no function in her left arm, she is nor-mal in every other way.

Kate has used her remarkable recovery to in-spire thousands of people over the last severalyears. She is a member of the USC Departmentof Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy Boardof Councilors and can be a priceless resourcefor the student who wants to know what it islike on the other side of the bed. Kate is avail-able to our stud e n t s t h r o u g h h e rw e b s i t e, http://www.katesjourney.com,and personal appearances on or off campus.

Department Chair James Gordon has highlyrecommended Kate’s book, Kate’s Journey, to

health professionals and students who seek to understandwhat the patient with a severe neurological injury actuallygoes through. Kate’s Journey; Triumph over Adversity is now avail-

able through the USC student book store.


LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH

We’d like to hear from you and share your news with other alumni in an upcoming issue of USC PT In Motion. Please mail this completed form to: USC Department of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, Attn: Sara

Villagran, 1540 Alcazar St., CHP 155, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9006 or fax to (323) 442-1515. You may also e-mailyour news to [email protected]. Photos are welcome.

FULL NAME:________________________________________________________________________________first middle last middle/maiden

DEGREE/YEAR: __________________________________ CHECK HERE IF THIS IS A NEW ADDRESS �

HOME ADDRESS:___________________________________________________________________________

CITY/STATE/ZIP:____________________________________________________________________________

TELEPHONE: __________________________________ E-MAIL______________________________________

HERE’S MY NEWS :__________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

USC Department of Biokinesiologyand Physical Therapy1540 Alcazar St., CHP 155Los Angeles, CA 90089-9006

James Gordon, EdD, PTAssociate Professor and Chair

Board of Councilors

Kathleen Bice, MS, PTChair

Kate Adamson

Blaine Behringer, DPT

Jack Close, MA, PT, FAPTA

Irene Martinez, MSW

Jorge Orozco, PT, NCS

Jacquelin Perry, MD

Willes Sonnefield, MA, PT

John Wallace, Jr., PT, MS, OCS


in motion volume 1 2004

Documents